The rocky peak of Mt Ollivier (1,933 metres) looks down over Mueller Hut and Mount Cook Village. Mt Ollivier is known as the first mountain Sir Edmund Hillary climbed. Its summit is reached is an achievable hike/scramble (or crampon-assisted mission) about 40 minutes from Mueller Hut
We can guide Mueller/Mt Ollivier as a big single day trip. However the overnight option allows time for a comfortable, unhurried ascent to the hut, and the opportunity to appreciate the spectacular sunrise and sunset light show that only Aoraki can arrange.

Season: October through April

Overnight hike locations - click for larger image.

Mueller Hut - Mount Ollivier - Route Description

The 1,000 metre ascent from the valley floor to Mueller Hut (1,800 metres) takes around four hours with only a short break. However, we take our time to make the most of the day, and take approx. 6 hours for the hike.
The trek to the hut offers uninterrupted views of the Hooker Face of Mount Cook, the Hooker and Mueller Glaciers, and the ice cliffs on Mount Sefton.

The first section is on a well formed, steep, stepped track. The gradient relents after 45 minutes, but you will have had a good warm-up!

We usually stop to take lunch at Sealy Tarns - picturesque mountain 'ponds' on a grassy bench. From there on, the next 500 metres of ascent is on a marked route on grass, scree, and frost-shattered boulder fields to the ridge.

In the early part of season (October through December) crampons and ice axe will be carried as there can be considerable snow cover (metres deep). Chilly mornings mean firm conditions under foot. Your guide will give instruction on proper use of equipment.

If time and fitness allows, we can attempt to climb Mount Olivier (1,933 metres) later than day. However, if the weather is continuing fine you can climb the following morning.

Olliver is a rocky peak. In late summer it offers some easy ‘scrambling’ sections, requiring good balance and use of hands. Early in the season axe and crampons will be used on the snowy/icy slopes to the summit.

The descent to Mount Cook Village is by the same route.

Mueller Hut Details

Mueller Hut is a modern 28 bunk hut maintained by the Department Of Conservation. It has 2 bunk rooms and a kitchen/dining area, solar powered lighting, tanked drinking water, and LPG cooking stoves. A hut warden is usually on duty, assisting visitors from November. The bunks have mattresses, so you only need a sleeping bag to stay cozy.

There is a booking system for beds, and as the hut is one of the most accessible in the Park. It can become very busy in January and February.

Alpine Guides has a supply locker at the hut with bivouac bags. If the weather is settled you can opt to camp out under the stars near the hut - to really appreciate the mountains and the spectacular southern night sky.

Seasonal Variation and Snow

There is considerable variation of conditions through the trekking season. When present most snow is encountered above Sealy Tarns (1,300 metres). However steps below this in shady places may be icy.

Snow is always present from October through December. Our parties will carry ice axe and crampons. More rock and scree is exposed as summer progresses, until by February most snow (aside from remnant patches) is gone from around the hut.

Although uncommon an avalanche hazard can be present on the upper route to the hut during October. If this is the case your guide(s) will assess the danger enroute, and all parties will carry carry avalache beacons, and rescue gear and recieve training in their use before departure in October

Experience and Fitness Required

Participants need a good level of hiking fitness, and be able to carrying a pack of 10-12 kg for 4 to 6 hours without stopping.

Some sections of the route have moderate exposure. Several 'scrambling' sections to the summit of Mount Ollivier require using hands for balance. Your guide will carry a rope if assistance is required.

Guide Ratio

Mueller Hut / Mount Ollivier is guided at a maximum of 1 guide per 4 guests.

On the ridge heading to Mueller Hut

Pricing

All prices are per person in NZ dollars. Prices are valid to 30 April 2017.

Reporting Details

If the weather is forecast to be very warm we may make an 'alpine start', to make use of the cooler hours of the morning. We will advise the day prior to your hiking trip.

Poor Weather Alternatives

Weather conditions in the mountains can change rapidly. We can receive snow at any time of the year. If hiking to Mueller Hut is not safe Alpine Guides will arrange an alternate hiking activity. This may involve travel away from Mount Cook Village. There will be no additional cost.

Your Guides & Safety

Our guides are professional qualified mountain and alpine trekking guides certified by the New Zealand Mountain Guides Association (IFMGA affiliated). All guides hold pre-hospital emergency care level first aid certification and carry a first aid kit. Our guides have constant communication with Alpine Guides base through our radio system, or satellite phone.

Age Restrictions

Minimum age is 15 years.

Equipment List

New Zealand is known for its variable weather - even over the space of one day. You must be prepared for a range of weather conditions - from warm to cool temperatures, and for sun and rain protection. UV is intense in New Zealand, so pack plenty of sun protection.

Booking and Dates

Mueller Hut trips are available through the hiking season November to April.
Bookings are dependent on guide availability.

Our hikes are booked on a private basis. You can choose a date and book as an individual, or with a friend, or small group. We do not offer individual spaces on group hikes.

We believe that bigger is not necessarily better. A smaller group means a more intimate experience, and space to appreciate this incredible landscape.